Key Facts
The Dexter franchise, based on Jeff Lindsay's book series, follows Dexter Morgan, a blood spatter analyst who moonlights as a vigilante serial killer. The original series aired from 2006 to 2013 on Showtime, followed by sequel series New Blood (2021-2022) and Resurrection (2025-present), and a prequel Original Sin (2024-2025). Here is our ranking of all four series.
4. Dexter: Original Sin (2024-2025)
Set 15 years before the original, Original Sin introduces a younger Dexter (Patrick Gibson) as he graduates from pre-med and joins Miami Metro. Christian Slater plays his father Harry, and Sarah Michelle Gellar appears as boss Tanya Martin, though her role is underutilized. Molly Brown shines as a teenage Debra. Despite strong performances and a promising start, the series was cancelled after one season, leaving storylines unresolved. It ranks last due to its abrupt end and lack of Michael C. Hall's presence.
3. Dexter: New Blood (2021-2022)
New Blood revisits Dexter (Michael C. Hall) after eight years, now living in Iron Lake under the alias Jim Lindsay. He has abstained from killing for a decade, but the arrival of his son Harrison (Jack Alcott) and local threats reignite his dark passenger. The series features a strong cast including Julia Jones as Police Chief Angela Bishop and Clancy Brown as villain Kurt Caldwell. While it improves upon the original's infamous finale, the villain is not among the franchise's best. It ranks third for its solid but not exceptional storytelling.
2. Dexter: Resurrection (2025-Present)
Resurrection brings Dexter back to life after New Blood's cliffhanger, now in New York City. The series introduces a stellar cast: Peter Dinklage as billionaire Leon Prater, Uma Thurman as his security chief, and Krysten Ritter, Eric Stonestreet, David Dastmalchian, and Neil Patrick Harris as killers. Prater's obsession with serial killers provides a fresh narrative, and the cat-and-mouse chase with Angel Batista adds tension. With reliable writing and a second season in production, Resurrection ranks second for its thrilling return to form.
1. Dexter (2006-2013)
The original series remains the best, despite its disappointing finale. Season 4, featuring John Lithgow as the Trinity Killer, is a highlight of modern television. The show introduced one of TV's greatest antiheroes and consistently pushed boundaries, exploring Dexter's dual life and the consequences of his actions. From the Ice Truck Killer reveal to the tension with Sergeant Doakes, the series kept viewers engaged. Its cultural impact and iconic moments secure its top spot.
FAQ
- How many Dexter series are there? There are four Dexter series: the original (2006-2013), New Blood (2021-2022), Original Sin (2024-2025), and Resurrection (2025-present).
- Which Dexter series is the best? The original Dexter series (2006-2013) is ranked as the best, despite its controversial finale, due to its groundbreaking storytelling and iconic seasons like Season 4 with the Trinity Killer.
- Is Dexter Resurrection a sequel to New Blood? Yes, Resurrection is a direct sequel to New Blood, following Dexter's survival and his move to New York City.
- Why was Dexter Original Sin cancelled? Original Sin was cancelled after one season despite a renewal, leaving fans disappointed. The show had potential but was not given a fair chance.